In an exciting development for South Dakota and its vibrant ice hockey community, the South Dakota Hockey Hall of Fame has announced its Class of 2025 inductees. This year’s class includes eight distinguished individuals who have made significant contributions to the sport. Among the honorees is Jeffrey Wilde from Watertown, recognized in the Players Category for his exceptional career as a goaltender.
Wilde, aged 41, will be formally inducted into the Hall of Fame during an elegant ceremony at the Sioux Falls Convention Center on April 11, 2025. This event underscores the growth and success of ice hockey in South Dakota — a trend mirrored by increasing participation rates and the rising skill levels of local athletes.
South Dakota, known for its sprawling prairies and rich cultural heritage, is not only a scenic wonder but also a burgeoning hub for winter sports, particularly ice hockey. The state has witnessed a remarkable transformation over recent years with the proliferation of rinks and hockey programs across its towns and cities.
“We’re excited to unveil the 2025 class of the South Dakota Hockey Hall of Fame,” said Jeff Scheel, Chairman of the selection committee. “Our sport is growing rapidly, and celebrating these individuals shows where hockey has been and where it’s headed in South Dakota.”
Jeffrey Wilde’s career is a testament to this growth. Standing at 5’11” and weighing 174 lbs, Wilde’s journey through the ranks of competitive hockey is marked by his time with teams such as the Sioux Falls Stampede in the USHL and Dubuque Thunderbirds in the MNJHL. His impressive stint at St. Olaf College culminated in a championship during the 2005-2006 NCAA III (MIAC) season.
Wilde’s statistics during his tenure as a goaltender underscore his formidable presence on the ice. While with the Sioux Falls Stampede, he boasted a flawless GAA of 0.00 and a save percentage of 1.000 in one game. In his six games with the Dubuque Thunderbirds, Wilde achieved a GAA of 3.21, a .907 save percentage, and recorded one shutout. At St. Olaf College, he maintained a GAA of 2.40 and a save percentage of .914 during the 2005-2006 season.
Beyond Wilde, the South Dakota Hockey Hall of Fame Class of 2025 includes a diverse range of individuals from various hockey associations, each celebrated for their unique contributions to the sport. The inductees also feature Cherry Hunter and Tom Tobin in the Builders Category and Rob Weinmeister in the Coaches Category, among others.
Single tickets for the induction banquet are priced at $65, with reserved tables of eight available for $520 and event sponsorship tables for $800. Attendees will gather to honor the accomplishments of these ice hockey pioneers, celebrating not only their past victories but also the bright future of hockey in South Dakota.
For more information on the Hall of Fame members or to purchase banquet tickets, visit the South Dakota Amateur Hockey Association website.
South Dakota’s commitment to ice hockey and sport, in general, is a reflection of a state that values both community and the pursuit of excellence. The recognition of individuals like Jeffrey Wilde serves as an inspiration to the next generation of athletes ready to make their mark on the ice.
As the anticipation for the induction banquet builds, the South Dakota Hockey Hall of Fame continues to be a beacon of recognition and inspiration, shining a light on the state’s proud legacy and promising future in the realm of ice hockey.